Charcot Neuroarthropathy
Pronunciation: SHAR-koh noo-roh-ar-THROP-uh-thee
Also written as: CN
A progressive, non-infectious destruction of bone and joint architecture of the foot and ankle arising from peripheral neuropathy, most commonly associated with diabetes.
Full Definition
Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN), sometimes called Charcot foot, is a serious limb-threatening complication of peripheral neuropathy in which loss of protective sensation leads to repetitive trauma, fracture, and dislocation of the foot and ankle, resulting in severe structural deformity. Orthotic management — including total contact casting in the acute phase and custom-moulded footwear and insoles in the chronic phase — is central to preventing ulceration and amputation. The eponym 'Charcot' is always capitalised; the condition should not be referred to as 'charcot foot' in edited documents. Editors should note that 'neuroarthropathy' and 'neuropathic arthropathy' are accepted synonyms.
Usage
Usage note: 'Charcot' is a proper eponym and must always be capitalised. Do not confuse with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), which is an inherited peripheral neuropathy, not a foot joint condition. 'Neuroarthropathy' and 'neuropathic arthropathy' are interchangeable but editors should standardise within a single document.
In Context
- "Acute Charcot neuroarthropathy was managed with total contact casting for 14 weeks until thermal symmetry was restored." — Diabetic foot clinic case report
- "Note that 'Charcot' must always be capitalised as it is a proper eponym; flag any lowercase instance for correction." — Proofreading guidance note